Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0115

Introduced
1/31/25  

Caption

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

Impact

The impact of S0115 is significant as it amends existing insurance laws to improve coverage for vital diabetes medications. By eliminating out-of-pocket costs associated with glucagon auto-injectors, the bill could potentially lead to better health outcomes for individuals prone to severe hypoglycemic episodes. The requirement applies broadly across all health insurance contracts issued in Rhode Island, thereby establishing a standardized level of care that helps reduce barriers for patients in need of these life-saving treatments.

Summary

Bill S0115 mandates health insurance policies in Rhode Island to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or a formulation that does not require reconstitution, beginning January 1, 2026. This requirement aims to enhance the availability of glucagon, a crucial medication for treating hypoglycemia, especially in emergency situations where rapid intervention is necessary. By ensuring that two auto-injectors can be obtained without copayment or deductible every twelve months, the bill addresses both accessibility and affordability issues related to essential medications.

Contention

While generally supported for its intent to increase access to necessary medications, S0115 may encounter opposition from some insurance companies concerned about the financial implications of expanded coverage mandates. Critics could argue that such legislation might lead to increased insurance premiums or could incentivize overutilization of glucagon products. Nevertheless, supporters argue that the health benefits of having this medication readily available outweigh these potential drawbacks, marking a significant step forward in patient care and safety.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2626

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI H8075

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI S2255

Eliminates prior authorization or step therapy requirement for prescriptions for any HIV prevention drug/prohibits the requirement of any copayment or the meeting of any deductible to obtain the prescription covered by the contract, plan, or policy.

RI H7625

Eliminates prior authorization or step therapy requirement for prescriptions for any HIV prevention drug/prohibits the requirement of any copayment or the meeting of any deductible to obtain the prescription covered by the contract, plan, or policy.

RI S2612

Requires that any insurance contract issued, amended or renewed on or after January 1, 2025, that provides hospital, medical or surgical coverage shall provide coverage for medically necessary treatment of mental health or substance use disorders.

RI H7623

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI S2614

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI S2401

Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.

RI H7273

Requires insurance coverage for all services provided by a pharmacist provided coverage of such services would have been covered if provided by a physician, advanced practice nurse, or physician assistant.

RI S2384

Requires health insurance policies to provide coverage for the licensed practice of naturopathy and to provide reports.

Similar Bills

RI S2626

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI H8075

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

RI H5173

Requires health plans that provide prescription benefits to cover at least one type of glucagon auto-injector, nasal spray, or formulation that does not require reconstitution to treat hypoglycemia. No copayment or deductible would be required.

UT SB0146

Glucagon Amendments

NJ A4280

Extends permission to administer blood glucose tests to EMTs.

NJ S3278

Extends permission to administer glucagon and blood glucose tests to EMTs.

UT HB0475

School Prescription Amendments

IL HB4294

PHARMACY-STANDING ORDER-SCHOOL